2013 Luis A. Rodriguez Vazquez, Vina de Martin “Os Pasas” Ribeiro Blanco, Spain.
The Rodriguez Vazquez wines are some of the best in Spain, this tiny producer in Galicia is one of the great secrets of Europe and in particular Luis Rodriguez’s whites are gorgeous expressions of terroir and style, they have very similar qualities as some of the iconic white Burgundy legends. The 2013 Vina de Martin Os Pasas is a blend of Treixadura, Albarino, Torrontes and Lado grown on granite and sandy soils and come off small plots farmed mostly organic around the town of Arnoia in Galicia, the wine is fermented in the old cellar using native yeast and is raised in large French oak, mostly neutral, though the Os Pasas is aged in stainless vats and the wine stays on the lees for about a year. The Albarino gives the wine vigor and dynamic acids, mineral tones and clarity while the Treixadura gives soft layers, delicacy and little extra sex appeal, the rest of the varietals add complexity to the Os Pasas. The 2013 is lovely, fresh and vibrant in every way, this is wonderful wine with a steely sense and fine detail showing white flowers, vivid mixed citrus, green apple and light peach notes along with wet stones, saline, a hint of tropical fruit and tangy lime on the crisp finish. There is a filling out with air and the palate expands, but everything remains tightly focused and refined and subtle hazelnut, earth and stone fruit linger on the aftertaste, this is very stylish white, drink this over the next 5 to 7 years, best from 2016 to 2022. It was a pleasure to meet Luis Rodriguez Vazquez and taste his latest lineup of wines, all of which are highly entertaining and impressive, a big thank you to his import, Jose Pastor and Farm Wines, as well as Aatxe Tapas Bar on Market, especially Sam (Aatxe) for such an awesome evening, it was an honor to see Luis, and Pedro Guimaro as well, Galicia is certainly a magical place!
($35 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive